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Effective Library Assignments for New Students

New students have to cope with so many things that are unfamiliar and strange, not the least of which are the higher expectations of college-level research. Students who used Google to find research in high school are suddenly told websites are off-limits. As educators, we have to ask ourselves how we can help prepare our students to do the research that will be expected of them as they progress in their university careers.

Library research related to specific class assignments is the most meaningful vehicle for teaching library research techniques. Students who have positive research experiences will be more enthusiastic about future research assignments. Here are some suggestions for designing library and research projects which should foster student success.

1. Assign individual or small group projects on a variety of topics so students are not competing for the same materials. Place appropriate materials on reserve if necessary.
2. Verify the accuracy of references given to students and make sure that the library owns the cited materials.
3. Give clear instructions, preferably in writing; students frequently misunderstand or forget an oral assignment.
4. Avoid the "trivial pursuit" or "scavenger hunt" type of assignment. Doing research involves a complex suite of skills that build on one another in a logical progression. A sink-or-swim assignment such as this does not teach or reinforce good research practice.
5. Consult with a reference librarian. We are happy to talk with you about designing successful library assignments. We can suggest appropriate library sources, design custom handouts, and/or teach your students about research strategies and sources.

The most important consideration is that students be able to succeed at the task to which you have set them. If you have any doubts about the "do-ability" of your assignment, try it yourself! Choose a topic and, using basic research skills, see how much difficulty you have locating good sources. Compare your experience with what you would expect of your students in terms of time and effort. And remember, when it comes to teaching research skills, librarians are always ready and willing to help!